are your ears burning?

"Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones." Proverbs 16:24

My ear was burning...  What was going on?  And then it hit me.  Being a klutz not only applies to sports and other activities requiring coordination for me, but evidently for hair straighteners too.  Using the devise on my waves, i clamped down on my ear with the 400-degree plates.  Experience tells us numbness occurs first with a burn. So, it wasn't until after i hurriedly left for school the surging, pulsating pain crept in. Once in the parking lot, i scanned my car for anything that might reduce my pain. And what to my wondering eyes appeared.... Burn Relief gel!!  I don't remember where, when or how it got there... but it answered my painful prayer for help.

Father, i was thrilled to find a quick, effective remedy for my burned ear.  But it also brought to mind another type of ear burning... the phrase we use to suggest someone is talking about us. Burning for good vibes is wonderful, burning for anything else, well, i rather not.  May my actions, motives and words be positive and encouraging to others.  Such behavior brings healing and peace to the giver and the receiver and glory to You.  There's nothing better than a Good Word to sweeten the soul.

Are your ears burning this morning?  Don't worry, here's your Burn Relief gel... i'm claiming you as one of my sisters/brothers letting the Light of our Father shine in what you do. I love doing life with you!

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

the truth about doing

 "Do  some  most  part  half  your portion  what you want  what's fair EVERYTHING without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life..." Philippians 2:14-15

Life is...
not about fairness, but righteousness
not about our way, but God's way 
not about conquering, but surrendering to God
not about independence, but dependence on God
not about our glory, but His.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

are you new?

"For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God's mystery, which is Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." Colossians 2:1-3

"Good morning!  Are you one of our new students?"

Puzzled she just stared at me.  The student with her declared, "She's not new.. that's Mary Lou!"

Oops... i didn't recognize her, and the reason was a strange one.  Mary Lou did not have her mask pulled up.  These days, i'm used to seeing students with their masks on, and i was shocked to see after a year of being masked, how different they looked without their mask.  It was a strange turn of events.  At first i didn't recognize students with their masks on, and now i don't recognize them with their masks off.   I eagerly look forward to the transition days of relearning students without a mask... face-to-face. 

Father, our world is filled with mysteries... identities, motives, behaviors, intentions.  Just when we think we have it figured out, a wrench gets tossed in and confusion enters.  Yet, amidst our struggles, changes and doubts i am ever so grateful to know not all is uncertain.  I am thankful to stand on the solid ground of knowing who and what Jesus Christ is... my Savior and Redeemer.  In Him there is Hope, a Future and Eternal Life.  Thank You, Father, for providing Your Son.  As a believer there is no mystery in Him, just Truth; and He is enough.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

a Mighty Word ~ unmoved

"Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet My unfailing love for you will not be shaken... says the LORD, who has compassion on you." Isaiah 54:10

We can shake, rattle and roll... and God will still be with us.  What a love. 

Thank You, Father!

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

the 1-2-3 on how to be

"... do good and share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased." Hebrews 13:16

GIVE more than you take,

SHARE all that you get and

LEAVE with nothing less than your best for others.

And that's how the love of God moves through us growing His Kingdom.

we are loved and chosen by God -- to do His work,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

put on a happy face

“A cheerful look brings joy to the heart..." Proverbs 15:30

Every direction i turned, reminded me to smile.  It started the moment i arrived at school.  Waiting for me on my desk was a book with a teacher's note on it, asking us to return a student's book to her former school.  I couldn't help but smile as i typed an email to the other school's librarian, telling her to expect a "Smile" in the interoffice mail. 

And then later, we received a box containing materials for our upcoming Book Fair.  It caused me to think, despite the many safety modifications on how Book Fair will operate this year, being able to offer this event in any fashion is reason to Smile!   

We likely will not experience the financial success of past years, and we are fine with that.  A sense of comforting normality is of greater importance this year.  Just seeing and hearing the excitement of our students tickled our hearts.  Their SMILES  and squeals due to the upcoming Book Fair, makes any extra work necessary well worth it. 

And if that wasn't enough to keep me smiling and motivated all day, being treated to a wonderful deli lunch did!

Despite hardships, uncertainties, and disappointments when we look around, we usually can find a reason to Smile!  And if we need some help, God will provide it through His earthly angels.  Thank You, Father.

May your cheerful heart show on your smiling face and spread to others. 

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ rejoice

"This is the day the LORD had made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24

Is messy, frigid weather keeping you from what you need to be doing??  

Rejoice and be glad for a break!  And thank our Father.  He knows what we need, and He has a better plan.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

are you stressed?

"Whoever claims to live in Him must walk as Jesus did." 1 John 2:6

"Are you stressed?"

It might as well have been God talking to me.  

If a family member, friend or other adult had asked me the question, my response likely would have consisted of a shrug and a nod.  But it was a child asking.  And the weight of the question, carried the impact of a hundred sticks of dynamite.

Not a word did we exchanged, yet my demeanor and body language spoke clearly to him... and others. Our one-on-one interaction lasted less than 7 seconds. Then "Charlie" touched my soul with his keen observation and question.  A powerful reminder of the impact or affect we have on others... whether we spend years, days or mere seconds with them.
 

Father, help me keep my attitude intact and my eyes on You. When frustrations begin to choke me, may the words of Jesus ring in my ears, "Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest... For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."  Thank You, for the Charlies you send in my life.  You know what it takes to get my attention.  When my eyes stay on You, i can rest in Your Peace.

Thank You, Father.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,
veneal

STOP

 "Be still and know that I am God."  Psalm 46:10

I was... 

              and He is.

No matter what kind of trials or circumstances we encounter, we find answers and peace when we remember to STOP.

S.T.O.P. -- Still Trusting Our Provider

Thank You, Father.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,
veneal

the letter you are

"You show that you are a letter from Christ... written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts." 2 Corinthians 3:3

From our heart, Truth flows...

Whether at home, work or school, His glory is present and powerful when we love all others.  May our hearts overflow with His Goodness, poured out on those in our path. Our hurting world needs His love, healing, mercy and grace.

We love because God first loved us.  If we love one another, God lives in us and His love is made complete in us.

and what a wonderful world it will be ---

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

always and forever

How does He love you?

...keep counting the ways.

(your name), My dearly loved Child,   (Ephesians 5:1)

You have been fearfully and wonderfully made by Me.   (Psalm 139:14)

Nothing and no one will separate you from My love! ... neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation!   (Romans 8:35 39)

I will meet all your needs.  (Philippians 4:19)

I will fulfill My purpose for you with an unending love.   (Psalm 138:8)

Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you... carry you... and rescue you. (Isaiah 46:4)

I will never forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of My hands.  (Isaiah 49:15-16)

As I watch over you, I will not sleep nor slumber.  (Psalm 121:4)

Live with the confidence of knowing who you are and whose you are... My Child.  (1 Peter 2:9)

Keeping looking up, My Child, I am here for you always.  (Deuteronomy 31:6)

forever your Dad

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

Need more affirmations regarding His love for you? Just pull out His Book.   It's basically a love letter written just for you.  Face it...  He's crazy about you!

I pick you

Reduce your stress, and bask in the love of the One who loves you best...

Here is the next letter from your forever Valentine.

Dear (your name),

As a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so I rejoice over you. (Isaiah 62:5)

I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving kindness. (Jeremiah 31:3)

I will be with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9)

I have chosen you to be my treasured possession. (Deuteronomy 7:6)

Do not be afraid, for I will fight for you. (Deuteronomy 3:22)

I will rescue you because I delight in you. (Psalm 1819)

You are the apple of my eye. (Psalm 17:8)

Forever your heavenly Dad

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

love letters to you!

 love letter #1... Be Mine

Some things in life are worth rereading, like love letters.  The next few days let's remember, rediscover and reflect on the greatest love of all.  No matter who you are, where you are, or what you are doing, YOU ARE GREATLY LOVED!  May we always remember Whose we are and Who loved us first. Read and believe His blessings for you  -- His beloved Valentine.

Dear (your name),

Do you not know?  Have you not heard?   (Isaiah 40:21)

I will never take my love away from you.  (1 Chronicles 17:13)

To you, I will be compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in love.    (Psalm 103:8)

I will never leave you nor forsake you. (Joshua 1:5)

I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.  (Isaiah 41:10)

Since you are precious and honored in My sight, and because I love you... do not be afraid, for I am with you.  (Isaiah 43:4 5)

I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name, you are mine.   (Isaiah 42:1)

I will quiet you with My love. I will rejoice over you with singing.   (Zephaniah 3:17)

And remember, dear Child of Mine,

My love endures forever.   (2 Chronicles 20:21)

 Dad

What a Love!  What a God!  What a Father!

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

caring wins

"Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble." 1 Peter 3:8

Amanda Gorman... my Super Bowl highlight.  

In the Super Bowl, whose main event is to crown the best team in the NFL, while showcasing high-dollar commercials and top-ranked musical performances, the best moment of the night for me was Amanda Gorman. The poet produced and performed a passionate poem honoring frontline workers and three honorary game captains chosen by the NFL. The honorary captains included Marine Corps veteran James Martin, COVID ICU nurse manager Suzie Dorner and educator Trimaine Davis.  It was a moving and powerful salute. 

If you missed it , below is a written taste of her rich poetry-ware. But i urge you to take a moment to search out, to drink in and to listen to her spoken "Chorus of the Captains"; her words are powerful; her words are life; her words are truth-telling.

"Chorus of the Captains"

"Today we honor our three captains for their actions and impact in a time of uncertainty and need. They've taken the need, exceeding all expectations and limitations, uplifting their communities and neighbors, healers and educators.

"James has felt the wounds of warfare but this warrior still shares his home with at-risk kids. During COVID, he has even lent a hand, live-streaming football for fans and family.

"Tremaine is an educator who works non-stop, providing his community with hotspots, laptops and tent workshops so his students have all the tools they need to succeed in life and in schools. 

"Suzie is the ICU nurse manager at a Tampa hospital. Her chronicles prove that even in tragedy, hope is possible. She lost her grandmothers to the pandemic and fights to save other lives in the ICU battle zone, defining the frontline heroes risking their lives for our own.  

"Let us walk with these warriors, Charge on with these champions, And carry forth the call of our captains!  We celebrate them by acting With courage and compassion, By doing what is right and just. For while we honor them today, It is they who every day honor us."

Thank you, Amanda, for bringing to life and to the forefront what truly matters in our world -- selflessly serving the needs of others with our whole heart.  You caught my heart and scored a heavenly touchdown for our Father in honoring His servants.  

All glory to Him, our Victorious Father, now and forever. Amen.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

and the winner is...

You!!

^"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever." 1 Corinthians 9:24-25

Whether it's the Super Bowl or other sporting event, there isn't a single factor... strength, records, preparedness, health... a team possesses that will guarantee the outcome of the event. Game variables and circumstances constantly change, even during the game.  And when it's all over, there's going to a winner and a loser.

 

But hear this Good News. As believers, with Jesus Christ by our side we are a winner for Life!  And isn't that the most supreme win of all?  May the JOY of this Truth fill your heart today.

Thank You, Father!

 

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

back off and wait

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

Closeup our situations and circumstances in life can appear ugly and daunting.  The hopelessness and darkness of the moment can be like a big black hole, sucking the life out of us and filling us with fear instead.  But God does not intend for us to live like that... in fear and distress.  He has a plan.

Father, when  we are overwhelmed and uncertainty is looming over us, help us to back off from the moment, wait, and TRUST You.  From Your perspective our circumstances take on a completely different look. You work beauty out of all things... in Your perfect time.

Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD will be your strength.

Praying the glory of our Father will surround you as you breathe in the sweetness of His Peace.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ compassion

"The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold." Acts 28:2

How are you surviving these bitter, wintery cold days?  Many of us are blessed with comfort and warmth... inside and out.  But some face difficulties that are foreign to us.

As children of God, let's continue to be present-day islanders to those facing cold, emptiness and pain by exhibiting compassionate hearts.

May we do good to all those around us...
not because we know them,
not because others are watching,
not because it makes us feel good,
not because someone else does,

but because it's the right thing to do.

Father, fill us with the ability, strength and desire to bring joy, comfort, love and Your Light to a cold and hurting world.

When we make music together, the whole world has reason to sing.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,
veneal

our Protector -- ALWAYS

"I will be your God throughout your lifetime—  until your hair is gray with age.  I made you, and I will care for you.  I will carry you along and save you." Isaiah 46:4 NLT

The celebration of 100 school days is always a big event.  Seeing the first graders dressed up as 100-year-old people is one of my favorite activities.  Their parade down the school halls is marked with bent backs, walkers, canes and lots of gray hair.  Through all the staged aches and pains, there is always a smile and a strut of confidence.

Father, we celebrate Your faithfulness to us each day.   No matter our age, our outlook, our behavior, our gray hair (fake or real) You love us, protect us and cover us. We never expire in Your eyes.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

a Mighty Word ~ song

"I know every bird in the mountains..." Psalm 50:11

Could you benefit from a cheery, uplifting drawing and thought? Unlike our Father, i do not know about every bird. But i am aware it's said cardinals are spiritual messengers sent by our loved ones from Heaven to watch over us.  And the bulletin board in the  hallway filled with cardinals caused my heart to smile.

There's a song in the air, when a cardinal appears. Love from Above... the sweetest of gifts.  He who knows all birds and other creatures, knows us and our needs too.

Thank You, Father, for this needed song in my heart.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

snapped!

"Then Christ will make His home in your hearts as you trust in Him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong." Ephesians 3:17

Yesterday with no warning, my driver side windshield blade snapped off the frame, flying off onto the road. A harsh scrapping sound of metal on glass signaled me to turn the wipers off. The pelting rain immediately impaired my vision.  Luckily i was within sight of my home and returning was clearly the wisest decision for help.

Anything snapping around you?  Nerves, patience, mind? Got problems, worries?  Whatever the issue, may you be reminded too home is where we find answers, directions and help.  As a believer, our Father is only a breath away as He resides within our heart; He is always there for us.  

Father, we are praying to be fill with Your strength as we turn to You and TRUST you know what is best.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal